DARK SEAS
For the past 5 years, I have found solace and healing in capturing the rugged, wild and raw beauty of the turrakana/Tasman Peninsula, allowing me to confront and navigate the complexities of my own mental health struggles. With its dramatic coastline and dark history, the turrakana/Tasman Peninsula embodies the essence of my own identity and by immersing myself in the process of documenting this landscape, I am not only honouring that beauty but also finding a sense of belonging and purpose in my own journey. Within this series, I endeavour to capture the raw power of the ocean and delve into the profound interconnectedness between nature’s forces and the complexities of human experience. I feel intimately connected to the haunting history of this island, where echoes of the past intertwine with the ebb and flow of the ocean. Here, amidst the darkened shores, I find refuge.
Below are a small selection of photographs taken over the last 5 years on the turrakana/Tasman Peninsula to give you an insight into some of the photographs that will be showcased in the Exhibition
There are also 2 short films of mine as well as a selection of quotes from some relevent community members and industry professionals for reference purposes.
“Nick has an uncommon eye, and with the stunning natural backdrops provided by his island home, he’s built a formidable body of work. Equally at home on the trail or in the water, his images capture the raw essence of Tasmania from all angles. Beyond Australia, he’s earned a reputation as one of the world’s leading surf photographers. ”
“Having lived at Eaglehawk Neck for the last four years, Nick has immersed himself in documenting the very special environment of the Peninsula. Nick’s stunning photographs capture the rugged and beautiful landscape that we live in and love. Nick manages to capture these qualities with grace and style in his striking images. ”
“Nick’s hunting grounds are where my Irish ancestors arrived in chains and my Palawa ancestors were hunted to near extinction. Underlying the surface splendor of the island is a dark history and I feel it permeating these photos capturing the raw power and beauty of the three oceans that surround it.”
“Absolutely breathtaking. This will be such a landmark document of the place. It’s up there with the Tasmanian work that has inspired me for years - Jonny Frank, Truchanas, Dombrovskis, the Maynards. ”
“Nick is known for his skill in capturing Tasmania’s wild places, going great lengths to photograph the island’s infamously rugged earthscapes of stone and water. It’s clear that this level of artistry results from a deeply intimate relationship with place.”
“The dedication to the craft is evident in his stunning black and white landscapes, showcasing the raw energy and drama of the Tasman Peninsula. This dedication comes from a windy road battling
mental health, in which he found a love to sharing images from his home, The Tasman Peninsula /turrakuna and sharing his story with others.”
“Nick captures the raw power of Tasmanias landscape, its been epic to see his work get more exposure and recognition as an artist, capturing moments with so much emotion. ”
“This is a stellar body of work. I really appreciate the honest, emotive power that resonates through your experience of the land and seascapes here on the Peninsula. ”
“Wild Island has followed Nick’s work over several years and first showcased his
photography in an exhibition in collaboration with the Tasmanian Land Conservancy in
2023. Nick’s work was extremely well received in the exhibition, where the bold
compositions and dramatic, emotionally charged power conveyed a message deeper
than the landscapes themselves. This is a characteristic feature of Nick’s refined black
and white photography, and one which resonates with his audience.
Nick is passionate about pursuing a practice deeply embedded in a curiosity to explore
and a desire to extend his technical ability within the photographic medium.
Juxtaposing the incredible power of the ocean, against the sinuous softness of kelp and
the gentle play of ocean wildlife, conveys not only the fragile nature of our
environment, but delineates the role that nature has played in nurturing the artist.
Nick’s devoted interest in providing a voice for nature and a deep respect for the
environment stands out in his work.”
I pay my respect to the traditional and original owners of turrakana/Tasman Peninsula, the Pydarerme people.
I recognise the privilege i have to work, learn and live on this country and acknowledge their connection to land, waters and culture. Sovereignty was never ceded.